Abstract
Allergic fungal sinusitis was first described in the 1980s. Interest in this disease entity has steadily grown. Several case series have been published describing more than 100 patients. An overview of both typical and unusual clinical presentations, laboratory findings, and radiographic features is provided in this review. Immunologic evaluation of these patients has found some evidence for an IgE-mediated hypersensitivity in the pathogenesis of this eosinophilic reaction. Despite the wealth of literature, controversy exists as to the optimal management of these patients. This review discusses the published outcomes of surgical and medical management, as well as offering some suggestions for monitoring patients for recurrence. In addition, treatment of allergic fungal sinusitis utilizing immunotherapy with fungal extracts is discussed. (Pediatr Asthma Allergy Immunol 2000;14[4]:307–314.)
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